Hello and welcome to our website. We are St. Andrew United Methodist Church and some of you may be wondering exactly what that means. Well, first of all, we are Methodists - which means we are members of a larger group (we call it “connectional”). Our missions and ministry opportunities are enhanced by working with thousands of other congregations. Also, our pastors move around every several years because Methodists believe that a church is not about a single pastor but is about Jesus Christ first.

  Theologically, Methodists emphasize grace. Salvation is defined as a way/process from sin toward a renewed relationship with God. There is a ‘here and now’ quality to our theology; not neglecting the afterlife, but definitely centering on present actions as a response to the eternal life given by God through Jesus Christ.

  We’re centered on the Bible but not restricted to it alone. We believe in a balance between mind and heart. Methodist theology was formed in a crucible comprised of both Enlightenment and Holiness. It would not be assumed, for instance, that the creation of the world either happened exactly like it says in the Bible or exactly like ‘the scientists’ theorize. There would be room for both together. Social activism and justice are woven into the texture of who we are.

  Our communion table is open. Anyone and everyone would be invited, welcomed and encouraged to receive communion.

     Finally, Methodists in general believe in singing. Lots of singing.

    That gives you an overview of Methodists in general. St. Andrew Church just celebrated its fiftieth anniversary. We are a larger small church or a smaller medium sized church depending on how you look at it. Our senior Pastor has been described as a cross between Andy Griffith and Santa Claus. Our deacon is also a local school principal. Our deacon, head of Church Council and several committee chairs are all women and we have had women Pastors in the past. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, or sexual orientation. Period.

      People are an active part of our service. We have an active drama team and are known for our Leap of Faith Players, our Madrigal Feastes, and The Living Last Supper.

      We have regular collections for Respond Now in Chicago Heights and are a weekly site for PADS--which provides food and shelter to the homeless.

        We are an active, friendly, social church that supports each other through life’s challenges and joys and, at the same time, does our best to honor Jesus Christ. I’m Sandy Conrad, the current Church Council chair. I know I haven’t answered all your questions but I hope I’ve piqued your interest. Come and join us whenever you can. You don’t have to be a member to become a part of who we are and I hope to see you soon.